We’ve all the seen the bootie “rockin’ everywhere,” but the over-the-knee boot is giving our favorite ankle-hugger a run for its money. A slew of these sky-high stunners were seen on the Fall 2009 runways of top designers including Vivienne Westwood, Marc Jacobs, Chloe, Prada, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Stella McCartney, Rodarte, Pucci, and the list goes on and on.
If you’re a 70’s boho flower child, look to Marc Jacobs’ regal plum number in suede for inspiration. Are you channeling Lady Gaga these days? Then head over to Louis Vuitton for a flirty futuristic version that would make the reigning Queen of Pop oh-so-proud. In any case, be very conscious of how you style the racy footwear to, ahem, preserve your reputation. Think Anne Hathaway in The Devil Wears Prada and stay clear of Pretty Woman references unless they’re from Vivienne Westwood. (Sorry Julia! We love this film beyond words, but we’ll leave the “working girl” attire on set.)
Thigh-highs will give you more wiggle room as they can double as the new leggings under fall frocks and classic trenches. Stella McCartney paired her vegan designs with an oversized sweater for an insta-hit combination. The rule of thumb: when in doubt, cover up! Wearing your over-the-knee boots atop skinny jeans or tights will steer you clear of a fashion mess and turn you into a fashion success.
Read on to see my favorite thigh-high styles!
Guess Rumala Boots, $199. Mushroom gray is the new neutral this season. Step into these knockouts wearing a gray skinny jean, vintage faded gray tee, black blazer, a winter beanie, and a cozy print scarf in a similar hue.
Joie Caravan Boots, $545. Take a break from the annual riding boot and hop into a flat over-the-knee boot instead. Joie’s design features a handy side-zip and fold over top. A great option for city slickers or down home gals.
Jeffrey Campbell Suede Boots, $168. I need this boot asap. It’s close to the Marc Jacobs purple suede over-the-knee found on his fall 2009 runway but costs a whole lot less. Plus you can wear it scrunched down or straight so you get two-for-one.
Candela Studded Pirate Boots, $429. Add a stud or two in your life to spice things up. (Not that kind of stud!) Rock out in these bad boys with denim cutoffs, a slouchy tee, and an oversized boyfriend blazer.
Antik Batik Ginko Suede Boots, $345. Count on Antik Batik for a divine handmade shoe; this suede creation with distressed beading would look super cute with an oversized sweater falling off one shoulder… accidentally of course.
Christian Louboutin Contente Boots, $1,995. While everyone around you is stomping around in noir, turn heads with navy Christian Louboutin over-the-knee boots. Trés Bien.
Chinese Laundry Trust Me Boots, $109.95. Psst! Every woman needs a pair of cognac boots in her wardrobe! The four button snap closure can be worn out for the world to see or turned down for a quick second look.
Roberto Cavalli Stiletto Boots, $1,476. Roberto Cavalli, we heart you. Come over for dinner anytime… and please bring these boots with you in a size 11. Yours Truly, Maria.
– MARIA DENARDO
Splash image by Meagan Aguayo